This bill amends several sections of Nebraska's criminal procedure laws to enhance the discovery process for defendants in felony and certain misdemeanor cases. Key provisions include the requirement for prosecuting attorneys to disclose information related to expert witnesses, including their names, qualifications, and the basis for their opinions. Additionally, the bill expands the scope of discoverable evidence to include information from electronic communication devices and computers, ensuring that defendants have access to relevant digital evidence necessary for their defense.
The bill also establishes a continuing duty of disclosure for parties involved in a trial, mandating that any newly discovered evidence or material must be promptly disclosed if it is subject to discovery and was previously requested or ordered by the court. This change aims to promote transparency and fairness in the legal process. The original sections of the law that are being amended are repealed, streamlining the legal framework surrounding discovery in criminal cases.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 29-1912, 29-1913, 29-1918